Need to Know: July

NEED TO KNOW:

THE JULY ISSUE

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In this month’s NEED TO KNOW we’re giving you pointers on how to stay smart through July’s hot weather, taking a trip to a rooftop beach bar (with actual sand) and bringing you our top picks of new looks, styles and brands.

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1. MATCH UP

Co-ordinating tops and bottoms are one of our favourite emerging trends – there was loads of it to be seen at the most recent LC:M, both in the shows and on the streets. This look comes from Taxonomy, the new collection is out soon and well worth taking a look at.

After a decade or so out of the limelight, we’re predicting a revival for all things indie (but specifically early-noughties indie) – think jangly guitar riffs, long hair and ripped denim – perhaps spearheaded by The Libertines’ July reunion gig in Hyde Park.

For a fun festival accessory look no further than Love Specs – the lenses make love hearts appear before your eyes. There’s also an ethical message here, as 100% of Love Specs’ profit goes to Love Support Unite Africa, which sustains an orphanage in Malawi.

This summer’s most resurgent accessory has already been making waves on the festival scene – mainly being worn as a headband. When in town, though, trying knotting a bandana around your neck for a nonchalantly bohemian look.

When it comes to casual summer footwear, look past sneakers for a moment, and take notice of these seriously cool (and comfy) mesh shoes by Maians. Not only do they look great, but they’re all handmade in Spain using locals materials and natural rubber.

Set on the rooftop of Camden’s Roundhouse, you can expect to find 150 tonnes of sand, a tiki bar, loads of live music, ping pong and even a pop-up fish restaurant. In short, it sounds amazing. This summer, you got 99 problems but a beach ain’t one.

OPENS 26TH JULY

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7. DAWN OF THE PLANET OF THE APES

We’ve been waiting for this sequel since the Planet of the Apes franchise was superbly rebooted in 2011. The plot synopsis on the official site begins with the line ‘a growing nation of genetically evolved apes’ – we stopped reading there: we’re in!

OUT ON 17TH JULY

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8. NOOSE & MONKEY

This exciting British tailoring brand, new to Topman, specialise in decadent, slim-fitting suits and shirts. They derive their name from a monkey washed ashore at Hartlepool during the Napoleonic wars – he was thought be a Frenchman by the locals, and accordingly met a sticky end.

If you’re attending any formal events in July, a pair of tailored shorts should take number one spot on your shopping list. For such occasions, style with a shirt and blazer. For hanging around town, simply add an unfussy tee and slip-ons.

If, like most of us, you have a wardrobe bursting with t-shirts – it might be time to try something a little different. A knitted style offers a sharp textural update, and looks spot-on paired with cropped formal trousers.